Doorknob issue

[Ninja Daisy]

Hi - new (and completely un-handy) homeowner here with a problem -

The rear door of my recently purchased house has a doorknob that has a thumb-lock on the inside & locks with a key from the outside. Earlier today, I left via the door to take my dog for a walk. I locked the door via the thumb-lock, closed the door, and Rover and I were on our merry way.

Upon returning, I unlocked the door with the key, but couldn't get in. The knob turns as if the door is unlocked - but the bolt won't recede. Unlocking it from the inside doesn't work, either. I removed the knob from the inside to see if there is something in the inner mechanism that can be pushed/pulled to make the bold retract, but I couldn't make anything work.

I'm envisioning having to get a saw to cut the lock out of the door...

Any suggestions? All advice appreciated - thanks in advance - Ali

[Kevin O'Sullivan]

Hi,

If you have access to the door from the inside - just pull out the hinge pins and gently slide the door out of it's frame from the hinged side...

Hope that works,

Kevin O'

[Colbyt]

It is there and can be done. You also need to remove the outer knob to free up the mechanics. Each is a little different. You might also try using a dull knife or nailfile to push back throw where it meets the door jamb. This usually quite easy from inside the house. Most likely all that is broken is latch part. Might be better to replace the whole lock.

[George E. Cawthon]